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THE “HUGE PRIDE” OF SRARFI AND OBBADI

This Wednesday, following their morning training session, conducted separately from the squad, Mounir Obaddi and Bassem Srarfi were presented to the press at 1pm, accompanied by Lucien Favre.

Youth and experience. Pace and power. On Wednesday, the coach of the Red and Blacks sat in between his new recruits, each possessing a different background. Backgrounds which perfectly suit the Nice philosophy, in which the experience of some members of the squad allows the youngest members to fully express themselves. “It’s a complementary mix, a good balance” explained the Swiss coach, who responded positively when questioned about how he felt the January transfer window had gone.

To the left of the former Gladbach boss was sat a Ligue 1 veteran, experienced midfielder used to plying his trade amongst the elites: Mounir Obbadi. “I didn’t know him that well because I was in Germany. I did a lot of research. I can rely on a lot of very competent people, with confidence.”

To his right, Bassem Srarfi a huge prospect in Tunisian football. “He can play in several positions. Right wing, left wing, second striker, explained the coach. I think he is happier on the right because a left-footed player and he can cut in.”

The two new Aiglons also took their turn to speak to the press. Calm and forward thinking, the older of the two simply claimed to be “extremely proud to join Nice. The project was very interesting. I join a club that has been following me for years. I almost came two years ago and I went to Italy to Hellas Verona. Today, I feel extremely proud to be at OGC Nice because there is a very good team here. I hope to bring all of my experience.”

Srarfi modestly explained his arrival: “I came directly to Nice and so I didn’t get involved with what happened last night. I have followed Nice since the start of the year. I had other offers from Lille, but it was the project laid out by Nice that attracted me. Having seen what Hatem (Ben Arfa) managed to do here last season also added to my motivation to join.”